I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the first-ever edition of Maritime Horizon, Maritime UK’s first magazine supporting and celebrating our vibrant and vital maritime sector. The UK’s maritime sector has always been at the heart of global trade, innovation, and economic growth. As an island nation, our success has been built on our ability to connect with the world, and today, that role is more vital than ever. With the sector contributing over £116 billion to the UK economy and supporting over 1.1 million jobs, it is clear that maritime is a driving force for prosperity across all four nations of the United Kingdom.
At Maritime UK, we are committed to ensuring that our sector remains world-leading, competitive, and
dynamic. That means championing innovation, supporting the next generation of maritime professionals, and advocating for the policies and investment needed to secure our future. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, and by bringing together industry, government, and academia, we can unlock the full potential of our coastal communities and maritime clusters.
In this edition of our magazine, we shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening across the sectorfrom groundbreaking clean maritime technologies to the continued and potential growth of our coastal communities. We also celebrate the people who make this industry what it is, from those at the forefront of innovation to the seafarers, engineers, and professionals whose dedication keeps the UK fed, fuelled, and supplied.
I hope you find this inaugural edition both insightful and inspiring. The future of maritime is bright, and together, we can ensure the UK remains a global leader in this vital industry.
Chris Shirling-Rooke Chief Executive Maritime UK
BANGING THE DRUM FOR THE UK’S MARITIME INDUSTRY
Featuring member success stories, industry insights, and key events for 2025, this is your guide to the UK maritime sector.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
The UK has long been a global leader in maritime trade, engineering and technology. The Society of Maritime Industries (SMI) plays a crucial role in ensuring that the nation remains at the forefront of this sector. As the trade association representing the maritime engineering, science and technology industry, SMI is committed to advancing innovation, supporting businesses and shaping policies that foster growth, innovation and competitiveness. The UK’s maritime engineering, science and technology industry contributes over £34 billion annually to the economy.
With over 200 members, SMI brings together shipbuilders, systems and components manufacturers, technology and engineering specialists, universities, and business service providers. SMI’s sector groups ensure close engagement with members and industry stakeholders. This enables the Executive team to fully represent industry views and provide valuable services to support members.
By engaging with key government bodies such as the Department for Transport (DfT), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the National Shipbuilding Office (NSO) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD), SMI ensures that the industry’s priorities are recognised at the highest levels.
One of SMI’s most significant contributions is its commitment to
innovation and decarbonisation. SMI has played a key role in advocating for initiatives like the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE), which has already allocated £206 million in funding for clean maritime technologies. Recent inputs into government consultations have included the Strategic Defence Review, the Industrial Strategy and the Spending Reviews.
Challenges and Opportunities in Maritime Engineering and Technology
The UK’s maritime sector faces numerous pressing challenges, ranging from international competition and skills shortages to the need for infrastructure modernisation. Nations like Singapore and China are making substantial investments in green
Maritime Member Spotlight books, driven by the UK Government’s pipeline of vessels.
maritime technologies, and without a strong government–industry partnership, the UK risks losing its competitive edge.
However, there are also significant opportunities. The demand for zeroemission vessels and offshore wind support vessels is increasing, offering UK shipyards the chance to secure high-value contracts. The development of autonomous vessels and smart shipping solutions presents another growth area where the UK can leverage its expertise. SMI was actively involved in shaping the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh (2022) and Maritime UK’s Offshore Wind Plan (2023), both of which aim to maximise opportunities for UK shipbuilders and technology firms.
SMI’s Priorities for the Coming Year and Industry Involvement
Looking ahead, SMI is focused on three key priorities:
Shipyard Modernisation:
Enhancing the competitiveness of UK shipyards through investment in advanced manufacturing and the Shipbuilding Enterprise for Growth initiative. A key focus here is promoting confidence in order
Autonomy:
The increasing use of autonomous and remotely monitored vessels needs to be matched by an agile regulator. SMI will continue to work closely with the industry and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to develop solutions. SMI also hosts a biennial student competition, providing the industry with an opportunity to connect with students. The competition raises awareness of the sector and highlights career opportunities for non-maritime students.
Maritime Decarbonisation:
Supporting the push for increased sector innovation funding for green technologies, and ensuring the continued success of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) and the Zero Emission Vessel and Infrastructure Initiative (ZEVI).
SMI encourages the wider maritime industry to participate in policy discussions, collaborate on research projects, and take advantage of trade missions and networking events to showcase British innovation on the global stage.
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CLUSTER SPOTLIGHT
In this Issue, we are shining a spotlight on Tees Maritime, a dynamic cluster driving innovation, trade, and sustainability in the Tees Valley. By bringing together businesses, academia, and industry leaders, Tees Maritime is unlocking investment and fostering collaboration to position Teesside as a global maritime hub.
Tees Maritime is a dynamic new cluster committed to positioning Tees Valley as a global leader in maritime innovation, trade, and sustainability. By uniting businesses, academia, and industry leaders, it will foster collaboration, unlock investment, and drive innovation, reinforcing Teesside’s role as a leading maritime hub.
With one of the UK’s largest and most strategically important ports, Tees Valley plays a vital role in international trade. The Teesside Freeport, the largest in the country, provides unmatched investment potential, attracting businesses through tax incentives, streamlined customs processes, and enhanced global trade opportunities Meanwhile, Teesworks, the UK’s largest industrial zone, is securing multi-billion-pound investments in future-ready maritime and energy infrastructure.
Tees Maritime will actively support businesses in leveraging these
assets, ensuring new and existing companies benefit from investment, trade expansion, and supply chain growth. It will play a central role in identifying industry needs, advocating for policy support, and connecting businesses with funding and innovation opportunities.
A key focus will be workforce development, helping to build a skilled, diverse, and future-ready talent pool for the sector. The cluster will work alongside education providers, businesses, and government partners to develop training programs, career pathways, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that strengthen the local skills pipeline.
With an independent, private-sectorled board, Tees Maritime will be selffinancing after initial government support, ensuring its long-term sustainability through commercial strategies and industry-driven initiatives.
Driving the Green Transition in Maritime
Tees Maritime will lead the shift toward a greener, more sustainable maritime industry, working closely with industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers. By championing clean technology adoption, supporting low-carbon solutions, and advocating for energy-efficient logistics, it will help businesses embrace sustainability and prepare for a net-zero economy.
A core priority is the adoption of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen and ammonia, to support lowemission shipping and port operations. Tees Maritime will help businesses navigate the transition to greener fuel sources by facilitating access to new technologies, funding
streams, and industry expertise.
As offshore wind continues to expand, Tees Maritime will ensure businesses can leverage supply chain growth and integrate into the renewable energy sector. It will work closely with partners to maximize the potential of Teesside’s Freeport, attracting green investment and fostering innovation in shore power, port decarbonisation, and sustainable infrastructure.
By driving collaboration, investment, and clean technology adoption, Tees Maritime will help future-proof the industry, ensuring long-term economic growth and environmental responsibility.
Maritime Cluster Spotlight
What’s Next for Tees Maritime?
Tees Maritime is focused on laying strong foundations and building momentum Over the coming months, it will work with businesses, investors, and key stakeholders to define industry priorities, unlock investment opportunities, and strengthen Teesside’s maritime network.
A key priority will be workforce development, ensuring that Teesside’s maritime sector is equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. Through training initiatives, career events, and knowledge-sharing programs, Tees Maritime will help upskill young people, attract new talent, and support professionals transitioning into the maritime sector.
The cluster will also act as a direct link between the maritime industry and government, ensuring that businesses have a voice in policy discussions and access to national and international funding opportunities. By advocating for strategic investment and regulatory support, Tees Maritime will help shape the long-term success of the region’s maritime economy.
Tees Maritime invites businesses, innovators, and investors to collaborate in shaping the future of the maritime sector. By working together, the cluster will drive sustainable growth, create jobs, and cement Tees Valley’s status as a globally competitive maritime hub
Keep an eye out for more details on Tees Maritime’s official launch event in May, which will be followed by a Coastal Powerhouse Summit in the autumn, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to drive forward Teesside’s maritime ambitions.
Maritime UK is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the Maritime UK Awards 2025! Taking place on 26th June 2025 in Dover, in partnership with DFDS, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Port of Dover, this prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers from across the sector.
The Maritime UK Awards highlight the vital role the industry plays in the UK economy, which contributes £116 billion annually and supports over 1.1 million jobs across shipping, ports, engineering, professional services, and leisure marine. With 14 award categories, the event provides businesses, organisations, and individuals the opportunity to showcase their success, innovation, and leadership across various areas, including clean maritime, skills development, and technology.
This year’s awards will particularly honour the dedication and commitment of seafarers, whose work ensures that the UK remains fed, fuelled, and supplied. By recognising excellence across the sector, the awards celebrate the contributions of those shaping the industry’s future while reinforcing the UK’s position as a global maritime leader.
Applications for the Maritime UK Awards 2025 are open until 9 May 2025. Businesses, charities, organisations, and individuals in the maritime industry are encouraged to apply and gain recognition for their achievements. For more information and to submit an application, visit: https://www.maritimeuk.org/awards2025/categories/
UPCOMING EVENTS
As we look ahead to the coming months, Maritime UK is gearing up for an incredible lineup of events designed to showcase, celebrate, and strengthen the maritime sector. From our annual Maritime UK Awards to our Coastal Powerhouse Summits, we are committed to driving growth, innovation, and collaboration across the industry. These events not only shine a spotlight on the outstanding work taking place within our sector but also create valuable opportunities for networking, knowledge-sharing, and strategic discussions that shape our collective future.
One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Maritime UK Awards, is set to be bigger and better than ever. This year, we are bringing the awards to Dover in partnership with DFDS, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Port of Dover and for the first time, the event will take place aboard a vessel - a truly fitting location to celebrate excellence in our industry. The awards provide an unparalleled opportunity for businesses, organisations and individuals to showcase their success, innovation, and leadership.
Taking place the day after the Day of the Seafarer, the awards will provide a unique opportunity to reflect on and recognise the invaluable contributions of our seafarers while honouring the brightest talents, innovators, and leaders in maritime. Nominations are now open, and we encourage businesses, organisations, and individuals across the sector to put forward their success stories!
Building on the success of our previous summits, most recently in the Solent, the Coastal Powerhouse Summits are returning, providing a vital platform for Maritime Clusters to showcase their strengths, attract investment, and shape the future of the UK’s coastal economies. With maritime playing a crucial role in delivering prosperity across all parts of the UK, these summits highlight the importance of collaboration, innovation, and infrastructure development.
Each event will bring together key stakeholders including industry leaders, local authorities, and policymakers to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing our coastal communities.
Another highlight in our calendar is London International Shipping Week 2025 (LISW), where the UK’s maritime sector takes centre stage on the global stage. This year, we are thrilled to agian be partnering with the Government to host the Mansion House Reception and Investment Day,
Maritime UK Upcoming Events
which will bring together key figures from across the industry, government, and international delegations.
Across the week we will be placing a particular focus on the Future Leaders of our sector, as well as celebrating the achievements of our i l i t k Th iti
Awards, championing regional growth through our Coastal Powerhouse Summits, or engaging with international leaders during LISW, our events are designed to unite, inspire, and drive the industry forward.
I encourage everyone in the sector t t i l d h th b t i
POLICY UPDATE
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in last week’s spring statement that a further £600m of investment would go into tacking skills shortages in the construction sector. While this is a welcome and necessary step in hitting ambitious housing and infrastructure targets, an equally strong case could and should be made for boosting training in the maritime sector.
In her speech, the chancellor outlined the case for securing the UK’s energy supply, stating: “We must invest in the skills that will allow Britain to build the infrastructure we need for energy security and economic growth.” Maritime has as much to contribute to this cause as construction, given its ability to deliver offshore wind farms, port expansions, shipbuilding, and the development of green shipping technologies, all of which require a skilled, specialised and well-trained workforce.
This is why Maritime UK will be making a case to government that maritime must be part of this skills investment. There is a strong overlap between traditional construction and the needs of the maritime sector, with engineering, advanced manufacturing, and digital technologies vital to the construction of modern ports, shipyards, and offshore energy. If the UK wants to get ahead of the curve and become a world leader in green energy and maritime innovation it is vital that the workforce required to deliver it is properly supported.
Maritime UK believes a key element of this lies with the expansion of Colleges of Technical Excellence as they have a crucial role to play in equipping workers with the specialist skills needed in the construction and maritime industries. By embedding maritime training in these programmes, students will see clear pathways into high-skilled, well-paid careers in shipbuilding, port operations, and offshore energy.
The development of skills in this sector is something Maritime UK has long-championed and, by making maritime part of this £600m investment, we have the chance to align national workforce planning with the needs of our industry. We will engage ministers to ensure maritime is part of the government’s skills strategy, because we know the future of Britain’s infrastructure isn’t just about buildings and roads but about the ports, ships, and offshore platforms that will keep our economy moving and our energy secure.
Training is critical in enabling the UK to maintain its competitive edge as a global maritime leader, and this investment would create new career opportunities while strengthening an industry vital to our economic and environmental future. Maritime must be part of the skills conversation, and we will ensure that case is made.
Sarah Haughey Head of Political Engagement Maritime UK
MARITIME CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT
Maritime clusters are playing a crucial role in driving regional economic growth and fostering collaboration across the sector. Recent developments have focused on business growth, skills development, and innovation, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, investment attraction, and technological advancement.
In the Solent region, Marine Electrical Skills Bootcamps have been introduced to address critical workforce shortages. The first course, launched in January, had 14 participants, with 13 completing the programme and three securing career advancements. Additionally, efforts to tackle the shortage of naval architects include collaboration with the Royal Institute of Naval Architects to bring industry ambassadors into schools.
The Scottish cluster continues to actively engage with industry and policymakers, serving as the secretariat for the Cross-Party Group on Maritime and Shipbuilding in the Scottish Parliament. Work is progressing on the Smarter Scottish Ports Project, and discussions are underway to establish a Maritime Innovation Hub.
Maritime Cluster Development
In Cornwall, the Cornwall Marine Network (CMN) significant progress has been made in fostering entrepreneurship and supporting new maritime businesses. CMN has successfully developed startup units to house emerging companies, with seven businesses already occupying space in their Maritime Futures Hub before its official launch.
On the Humber, the cluster is finalising the appointment of a new leadership role to strengthen business engagement. Planning is also underway for a major offshore wind conference, set to bring key industry players together.
In Northern Ireland, NIMO recently hosted a well-attended health and safety event for the maritime and offshore sectors. Additional initiatives include business development training, sector-specific workshops, and efforts to enhance communication and digital platforms.
Across the North West, Mersey Maritime continues to drive innovation and investment in the region. Their Maritime Exchange conference has provided a key platform for industry leaders, while
ongoing engagement with government ensures the sector’s strategic priorities are recognised.
Within the South West, MUK SW successfully hosted the CMDC6 event, attended by around 80 people. They also ran a Clean Maritime and Offshore Wind drop-in at the Clean Maritime Expo. Progress continues on the Skills and Careers Program, with new career videos and a Career Skills Diversity Magazine in development.
Being part of a local maritime cluster gives businesses access to key decision-makers, allowing them to influence policy and industry developments. Clusters connect members with government bodies, regulators, and industry leaders while providing valuable insights into emerging trends, innovation, and skills development. Looking ahead, the focus remains on expanding opportunities, strengthening supply chains, and enhancing global competitiveness through continued collaboration and investment in skills and infrastructure.
Sally Coles Programmes Administrator Maritime UK
MARITIME AMBASSADORS
"Our Maritime Ambassador Programme continues to grow, connecting industry professionals with young people to inspire the next generation and showcase the incredible opportunities within the maritime sector."
Our maritime ambassador programme is in its 4th year and has grown steadily since its inception. We currently have 376 active ambassadors who have engaged with over 53,500 young people in the last 12 months.
From working at sea to designing superyachts, and sustainable energy to shipbroking, maritime offers exciting and varied careers but lacks awareness among schools.
Becoming a maritime ambassador is a great way to inspire young people and make them aware of the diverse opportunities that are available in the maritime sector by sharing your experiences while promoting your own company and sector of maritime.
A range of maritime ambassador resources and lessons have been produced to support ambassadors, these have been cascaded to existing ambassadors and are available to download from the Maritime UK website.
Later this year we will be offering training workshops to ambassadors to provide further support to them and to provide opportunities for sharing experiences.
Join our campaign and help young people engage with diverse role models through in-school or virtual activities.
Volunteering is flexible and can be fitted in and around your schedule. For more information visit: https://www.maritimeuk.org/careers/ maritime-ambassadors/
Dave Collison Careers & Outreach Manager Maritime UK
